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Monday, February 28, 2011

So glad to have you back, Maureen. How did you come up with the idea for this story?

When I proposed a Great War series to my publisher, we knew each story would be set in Europe. I thought a logical backdrop for each book would be to start the first story at the beginning of the war, the second in the middle, and the third and final story at the end of the war. Each book is an independent read, with a whole new cast of characters, and the war itself the theme tying it all together.

What could be more dramatic than setting this final book in the series in Germany? Finally, I could create sympathetic German characters! Being German myself, that appealed to me. But the era and setting turned out to be far more challenging than I expected.

So I concentrated on one aspect of the political upheaval going on at the time, what I considered to be the most dramatic. Most people are familiar with the Red/Communist revolution in Russia toward the end of the First World War. I didn’t know it started a Communist revolution in many other parts of the world—including Germany. I whittled away all of the other German political themes of the time, focused on the relationships of my characters and how they would have been impacted by the events they naturally would have been part of. History wrote much of the story. It was extremely educational for me, but the characters made it far more fun than a history lesson!

That's one reason I love historical fiction. If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Oooh, Lena, this is a hard one since I admire so many authors out there today! I sincerely believe we’re part of a Renaissance of Christian fiction, that God is stirring a number of talented authors to write for Him. It’s exciting to be part of this industry these days! Which means, of course, there are literally scores of people I’d love to sit down with and chat. So consider this just a start…and of course I’d start with you, Lena! I know you write more historicals lately, but you’ve also done some contemporary work and you’re also one of my favorite conversationalists. Another top-of-the-list name would be Allie Pleiter, who is local to me so we get together every so often and every time we do I’m reminded why she’s one of my favorite people ever—she’s smart and witty and fun, just like her books. I’d also love to chat with Deb Raney, because she has such a heart for encouraging others. And I know Nancy Moser has been writing historicals lately, too, but she’s another one who’s written some contemporary fiction so I would include her here. I not only admire her work, but she and I have a number of things in common from tastes in books to political leanings. Another author I would include would be Janet Lee Barton – we had the opportunity to get to know one another at a writer’s retreat last year, and I know she’s a kindred spirit. Then there is Harry Kraus, who is an amazing writer and such an interesting guy to talk to about his mission work in Africa. Speaking of the Sudan…I can’t forget DiAnn Mills, who is another one writing both contemporary and historical. DiAnn has such a heart for others, I love talking to her every time I see her. I know that leaves out a bunch of my other friends, so we’ll just have to save those names for a future date, won’t we?

Thank you for including me, and I love the collection you would pull together. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Once again I’ll have to leave out so many favorites! But the historical authors I’m closest to are: Siri Mitchell, Jill Eileen Smith, Tammy Alexander, Judy Miller, Ruth Axtell Morren, and I’d love to sit with both Julie Klassen and Julie Lessman, because I keep getting them confused and I’d like to know both of them well enough to never do that again.

That group would be a really fun party. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?

I’ve talked to a number of multi-published authors and most (if not all) realize there is little, if any, job security in this business. Even best sellers know that if their sales go on a downward trend and fail to creep back up (for reasons that may or many not have to do with the quality of a book, but might also depend on the popularity of a series, a genre, a trend, etc) then even they might find themselves searching for a new publisher. Most of us realize we have to bring something new and fresh to our audience while also meeting the demands of what’s expected. Basically we must balance new ideas with the knowledge that while we’re not writing to a trend we are likely writing to a specific audience, one that expects us to write the kind of book they’ve enjoyed from us in the past. That can be tricky, especially if you want to write a variety of books. I’ve been blessed to write both historical and contemporary stories, with a romance being the theme my readers look for in my stories. But it’s difficult to know how a book will be accepted if it feels very different from previous books.

Tell us about the featured book.

Springtime of the Spirit

Germany, 1918

Four years of fighting have finally come to an end, and though there is little to celebrate in Germany, an undercurrent of hope swells in the bustling streets of Munich. Hope for peace, fairness—the possibility of a new and better tomorrow.

It’s a dream come true for Annaliese Düray. Young and idealistic, she’s fighting on the front lines of Munich’s political scene to give women and working-class citizens a voice in the new government. But she’s caught off guard by the arrival of Christophe Brecht—a family friend, recently returned from the war, who’s been sent to bring her home.

It’s the last place she wants to go.

Christophe admires Annaliese’s passion, unable to remember the last time he believed in something so deeply. Though he knows some things are worth fighting for, he questions the cost to Annaliese and to the faith she once cherished. Especially when her party begins to take its agenda to new extremes.

As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Annaliese and Christophe. When an army from Berlin threatens everything Annaliese has worked for, both she and Christophe face choices that may jeopardize their love, their loyalty, and their very lives.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Part I

November 1918

Chapter One

One step, then another. He’d started out with his eyes forward, chin up, but all he could see now were the tips of his boots.

Christophe Brecht was inside German territory, the train having taken them back over the border, away from the trenches that had marred France for the past four years. The ground his boots pounded now belonged to the fatherland.

Home.

The only sound was that of his men marching beside him—not that their tread could be called marching. Most looked as tired and worn as he, barely able to take the next step. They were still covered in the mud of no man’s land, thick from boots to knee and in varying layers up to the helmet.

Did any of them remember how it had been when they marched—yes, really marched—in the other direction? Songs and praise echoed from every avenue, and flowers showered them from smiling women, with proud pats on the back from fathers and old men.

The city that had sent them so gloriously off to battle was still beyond sight. Those not wishing to go all the way to Munich had been made to get off the train already, close to but not at their requested destinations. The train lines were in disarray after handing over half of their locomotives to the Allies, too much disarray to answer individual needs.

But Christophe wasn’t far from Braedon, his small hometown some distance west of Munich. He shoved away old thoughts of how this day was supposed to be. No victory parades to greet them, no flowers. No woman to kiss him now that he was home. Just silence.

A very poignant opening. I can't wait to read it. It just came yesterday. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

I've been waiting for this book to release. Welcome back, Robin. Do you have a favorite genre to write? If so, what is it?

I can’t imagine not writing in the suspense and suspense subgenre. I grew up reading Trixie Belden, then Nancy Drew, before cutting my teeth on Mary Higgins Clark so mystery/suspense is what I enjoy reading, so naturally that’s what I enjoy writing.

If you didn’t live in the part of the country where you do, where would you live?

I don’t think I’d be able to survive anywhere outside of the south, although I would love the idea of a summer home in Maine. No idea why—I’ve never even been to Maine. LOL

When you get that summer home in Maine, you'll have to invite James and me. What foreign country would you like to visit and why?

Scotland, because I’d love to visit the castles and my husband wants to play St. Andrews Golf course.

I've heard that course is awesome. Describe what you think would be the most romantic vacation you could take.

Just about any vacation alone with my husband is what I think would be the most romantic.

Where would you like to set a story that you haven’t done yet?

Hmmm…for some reason, I think I’d like to set a story in Alabama or Georgia.

It's true that you're southern through and through. What is the main theme of this novel?

Forgiveness. I hope readers will gain insight in that sometimes, things are not always what they seem, but God is always good and always with us. I also wanted to show deep relationship dynamics of adult children and their parents...with misunderstandings and implied hurts.

Tell us about the story.

Informed by the real-life fallout of the U.S. economy and devastation caused by multiple hurricanes along the southern coast, In the Shadow of Evil tells a modern day story involving the exposure of a building rebound scam. Amidst the layers of unethical practices, supply shortages, and excess murders, a top Louisiana homicide detective loses his heart to a charitable contractor while uncovering a secret about his tragic past.

Oooo, I can't wait to read it. Please give us the first page of the book.

Eighteen Years Ago

What a night!

Maddox turned into the residential area and glanced at the digital display on the car’s dash—12:28. Great, late for curfew. He smiled. Being late was worth it when he’d had a hot date with Julie Cordon. Man, the girl was something else. Beautiful, sexy, and funny. Just being with her made him feel special. Made him forget ots of things, including time.

He was seventeen and shouldn’t have a curfew anyway. A senior in high school and he had to be home by midnight? All his pop’s doing.

Tyson Bishop . . . Mr. Air Force man, determined to force the entire family to live by rules and regulations.

But his dad was over foreign soil right now, jumping out of perfectly good airplanes. His mom understood better, wasn’t quite the stickler about curfews like his dad. Good thing too. Maddox was almost thirty minutes late tonight. Pop would blow his top and ground him for at least a month. Probably take away his car. But not Mom. She’d just caution him to pay closer attention to the time.

Launch into the whole spiel about responsibility and accountability. He could recite it from memory.

Maddox whipped into the driveway and pressed the garage door opener. The light from the kitchen door spilled into the garage. Mom would be up . . . waiting. He should’ve called. But being around Julie was like being caught in a time warp. Even the car’s interior held her smell. Light, flowery . . . teasing and
tempting.

He killed the engine and jogged up the steps, slipping his charming smile into place. His mom had never been able to stay mad or disappointed when he flashed his dimples at her. He’d promise to mow the grass tomorrow before Pop got home, and she’d forget all about his tardiness.

He shut the garage door behind him and entered the kitchen.

“Mom? I’m home.” The hint of roast lingered in the air.

The house was as silent as a tomb.

That's quite a hook! How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is http://www.robincaroll.com/ and there one can sign up for my newsletter, visit my blog, find each of my books’ webpage, and follow me on social medias like Twitter and Facebook.

Robin, thanks for dropping by.Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Deb's Desk (TX) is the winner of When All My Dreams Come True by Janelle Mowry.Nancye (KY) is the winner of Love Finds You in Camelot, Tennessee by Janice Hanna.Delia (OK) is the winner of Secrets Under the Midnight Sun by Eliza Marie Crites.Lana Packer (AZ) is the winner of The Life Ready Woman by Shaunti Feldhahn.Wendy (MN) is the winner of Journey to Riverbend by Henry McLaughlin.

If you won a book, please give the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, or other Internet sites. Thank you.

Congratulations, everyone. Send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.You have 6 weeks to claim your book.
If you didn't win and you plan to order the book, please use the link provided on the individual interview. By using that link when you order, you will help support this blog.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Welcome, Kathryn. So good to have you here on my blog. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I write a lot of myself and my friends and family into my books. There is always one or two real-life experiences woven in my stories, plus expressions, etc., that I observe in my friends and family.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I went zip lining in Alaska. As I have a moderate fear of heights, this was a bit of a challenge.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I've always had a vivid imagination and always known I wanted to write "some day." I actually started writing as an adult, after I’d left my career as a pharmacist and was staying home with my kids.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I like a mix of everything. If I read something sad, then I might choose suspense for the next book. If I read something light, then I'll likely go to something more dramatic.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

That's something I'm currently pondering. My life has been CRAZY this last year, mostly due to an extremely ill daughter. After spending weeks at a time sleeping on a cot in a hospital room, I realized there are many activities in life that are not really necessary. I’m trying my best to cut back on some of the less necessary things.

Something like that will really bring what's important to the forefront. How do you choose your characters’ names?

Many of my characters are named after friends, family, or people I know (first or last name, rarely the combination of both). My rule is that a character can be nothing like the person for whom they are named. For instance-- my daughters have shared names with middle-aged mothers, my husband has been an elderly man, and my friends show up in all sorts of weird places.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Having the tenacity to stick with writing through years of learning, striving, and rejection. There were many times I wanted to quit, but I believed that God had called me to write and I kept at it.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A cat, because I think my cat lives a pretty ideal life. :-)What is your favorite food?

Cheeseburgers and french fries

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Plotting and first drafts overwhelm me. This continues to be a problem for me. I overcome it by walking in the faith that God has called me to do this.

Tell us about the featured book.

Another Dawn is the story of Grace Graham, a woman who tends to run when things get hard. She returns to her hometown to help her estranged father recover from surgery, and soon after arrival her unvaccinated four-year-old son is ground zero for a measles outbreak. Several infants, including Grace’s niece, develop severe complications. As Grace begins to come to terms with how her decisions have affected others, she must choose whether to run, or stand strong and help in any way she can.

Please give us the first page of the book.

The Santa Barbara Wharf was the perfect place to get lost from reality for a few hours—the smell of salt air, the smiles of tourists, the Ty Warner Sea Center to enthrall my son, and the complete absence of anything resembling my normal life. We climbed out of my car and Dylan ran immediately to the safety rails lining the edge of the pier. “Look, Mama,” he said as he pointed toward the churning water below.

My sandals made a contented scuffling sound against the wooden deck as I moved to his side. At the mouth of the harbor, a long blue sailboat was cutting through the water on its way into the marina, several people hurrying around its deck folding and securing the sails. Yes, this had been a brilliant idea. “Isn’t that awesome?” My mood was already improving.

“Yep, now let’s go pet a shark.” Dylan turned and started skipping in the general direction of the Sea Center, his dark brown hair bouncing with each step.

“Dylan, wait for Mama.” I hustled toward him, almost laughing with the lightness of the day.

My pleasure, Kathryn.Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

I'm blessed to have my very good friend, Lisa Harris, on the blog again. Her family serves as missionaries in Africa, Mozambique right now. But they've also been in South Africa and Zimbabwe. I absolutely love reading her books set on that continent. So, Lisa, tell us, how did this book come about?

A couple of years ago, I found some thick, worn books in my uncle’s library about the culture of Northern Rhodesia that had been written back in the early 1900’s. I was fascinated as I read about the people and their lives and knew it was the perfect backdrop for a story I wanted to write.

Tell us about the book’s cover and what makes it unique.

There are actually two versions out on the web, because my publisher decided to scratch the first one and come up with something completely different. With the final cover you see here, I think they did a fantastic job. The story is about a woman caught between two worlds--the bush of Africa and New York City--so you can see Africa on the cover’s front and the Statue of Liberty on the back.

Please explain and differentiate between what’s fact and fiction in the book.

While the storyline and characters are all from my imagination, I tried to make the setting of both Africa and New York very realistic. I loved exploring both places and what was happening during that time period so the story would be as authentic as possible.

You know me. I love authenticity in historical settings and culture in novels. How much research did you have to do for this book?

This was definitely one of the most research intense books I have ever written. With two settings and a 1920’s time frame, I wanted to bring that period--from both sides of the world--to life and show the stark contrast between the two continents. I’m so thankful to not only hands-on research books, but to the Internet where I was able to gather tons of information including actual photographs taken in New York during that time period.

What are some of the most interesting things you found about this subject that you weren’t able to use in the story?

Because the 1920s isn’t a time period I was very familiar with, I found it extremely interesting and would often find myself lost in research for hours. There were so many things I researched that I could have turned into separate storylines, many of which I was only able to touch on like prohibition, the mob, and the consequences of WWI, for starters.

What inspired and surprised you while you were writing the book?

Personally, I was inspired by Lizzie’s journey of faith as she struggled with her identity, because as a missionary I can relate to some of her feelings in living in two worlds. But even beyond that, I was reminded that my identity is in Christ. It is not based on where I live, who I am, or what my culture says--it is based only on who He says I am.

What do you hope the reader takes away from the story?

I hope that readers will be able to relate to both Lizzie and Andrew. Lizzie struggled over belonging, something we all face at different times in our life, while Andrew was running from God because of a tragedy in his life. The bottom line is that our God is bigger than anything we face. He won’t grow tired or weary. He brings out the starry host at night, calls them by name, and He created you. And while God doesn’t always change circumstances, His plan will always triumph through any circumstance we face.

I've found it's often more about the process of our growth than the end of a circumstance. What is the next project you’re working on?

I’ve recently taken some time off from writing while our family has been on furlough, but am excited to jump into a new suspense series once I’m back home in Africa later this month.

What do you do when you have to get away from the story for a while?

Like Lizzie, I love heading into the peaceful African bush and enjoying God’s amazing handiwork.

Your amazing pictures of the African bush on your blog take me on the journey with you. Thanks for using them. Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter One

Lizzie MacTavish froze as she watched the giant beast walk across the dusty path in front of her. She crouched in the thick folds of tall grass between Chuma and Esther, her two young African charges, holding her breath until she thought her lungs were going to burst.

The elephant lumbered toward them, close enough that Lizzie could see the infant hidden beneath the gray shadows of the mother’s belly. Close enough to see its long eyelashes that kept out the dust from storms that regularly swept across the plains and the creases in its wrinkled skin, tinged with the brown mud from the African soil.

Finally, Lizzie took a gulp of air, breathing in the sweet scent of the mufufuma tree and its violet blossoms that mingled with the musky odor of the elephant. Overhead heavy clouds gathered, waiting for the first showers of the season to fall. October always brought a change in the activities of village life. The lazy days of winter, with its sharp winds and grass fires, had all but disappeared.

As winter merged into the rainy season, the grasslands presented an abundance of fragrant flowers that perfumed the morning with their sweet smell. Even the trees were laden with scented blooms, making up for the humid and sultry air. It was her favorite time of year, when men worked to cut the trees in the fields, and women planted the maize, sorghum, and millet in the fertile soil and harvested pumpkins and ripe forest fruits.

Esther tugged on the melon-colored fabric of Lizzie’s skirt. “Bama will not be happy when she finds out we have wandered past the far pasture and toward the banks of the river.”

Lizzie kept her voice to a low whisper. “Your mother will be busy for hours as she awaits the birth of yet another one of your sisters or brothers.”

A grin spread across Chuma’s face. “My father is praying for a son.”

Lizzie frowned. A son, of course, would be preferred. Daughters were regarded simply as wealth, much like the cattle that were often valued above both wife and child. It was one of the tribal beliefs Lizzie disagreed with. Wasn’t it the woman who stamped the corn, prepared the meals, and bore the children? Even the Holy Scripture said that men and women had been created equal in God’s sight.

It's such a pleasure to havs you here, Lisa. And I loved seeing you while you were on furlough.Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Next week I'll be on a retreat, but I'm uploading a couple of interviews to post while I'm gone. Thank you for reading my blog. It gives me great pleasure to introduce you to so many Christian authors, some from foreign countries. Be sure to tell your friends about my blog.

And if you won a book, please give the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, or other Internet sites. Thank you.

Patsy (Bible Belt)is the winner of Alaska Weddings by Susan Page Davis.Miss Kallie2000 (GA) is the winner of Words by Ginny Yttrup.

April (NC) is the winner of Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona, by Miralee Ferrell.

Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email. You have 6 weeks to claim your book.
If you didn't win and you plan to order the book, please use the link provided on the individual interview. By using that link when you order, you will help support this blog

Friday, February 18, 2011

Welcome, Henry. I love your book cover. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

It varies. In some characters, I don’t see any of myself even though I know the protagonists are driven by a Christian worldview, as I am. If there is any of me in my characters, it is unintentional. When I look back in the editing process, I can see where there are parts of me in a character, some of my personality and mannerisms. One character may pick up my sense of humor, another my introverted personality. I try to keep myself out of my characters as much as possible by incorporating elements from other real people, by doing character sketches and bios, even using the Meyers-Briggs on occasion. Some characters just seem to grow out of the story. They start out filling a specific need or role and then grow in importance, forcing themselves into a larger role. They can, at times, be so frustrating, I want to shoot them. But, most of the time, it’s exciting to follow where they take the story.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I felt called to write in 2002, after serious heart surgery. I had dabbled in writing for several years before that and, after the surgery, I picked it up again, more seriously this time, but still only a couple of steps above dabbling. In 2005, I felt it was time to get serious about writing, to see if I had what it took to be a writer. I signed up for the Apprentice Level course at Christian Writers Guild. I also began to attend writers’ conferences and get involved with critique groups. I ventured out and risked having my work evaluated by others and I received receiving encouraging responses. The positive and constructive feedback moved me to take my writing seriously and to strive to learn more of the craft and develop my skills.

I read many of those same Christian fiction authors. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I begin each day in prayer and meditation of the Word. This is first and foremost. If I don’t make time for the Father first, the day runs amuck.

I also hold myself to a schedule. Now that I’m writing full time at home, I discipline myself to be in my writing room by 9:00 a.m. and to write until 1:00 p.m. and I look to achieve a specific word count of 2,000 words per day. I schedule time to handle emails, phone calls, etc, outside of this block of time.

If I need to do research, I schedule a meeting with myself to do it.

My background in management taught me the value of controlling my time and my commitments.

I’ve also learned not to rush into decisions, to take my time and make sure I have peace before moving forward.

All very good advice. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I don’t know that I have a conscious method of doing this. For the most part, the names come to me very early in the character development process. Many times, I have the name first and build the character around it. In Journey to Riverbend, I wanted the characters’ first names to be Biblical and pretty much stuck to that. However, the mayor of Riverbend is named after our first cat. I’ve had to do serious research for only one character’s name so far: In a book yet to be published, I needed to change the heroine’s name because it started with the same sound as the hero’s. Because the heroine is part Cherokee Indian, I researched Cherokee names to find hers.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

In the realm of writing, it is winning the Operation First Novel contest sponsored by the Christian Writers Guild and Tyndale House.

That is wonderful. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

Eyore of the Winnie the Pooh stories because our personalities are so much alike. Or so people tell me. I just thank them for noticing.

What is your favorite food?

Veal Parmigian with real veal cutlets, not veal patties.

I love that, too, as well as Eggplant Parmigian. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Being a perfectionist, going over the same chapter or page time and again, seeking to make it perfect.

Through DiAnn Mills, Angela Hunt, and Brandilyn Collins, and others, I learned to focus on getting the first draft done. The work and art of writing is the rewriting.

Tell us about the featured book.

Here is the back cover copy. It sums it up so very well.

A chance for redemption was something they never expected.
A chance for love was something they never dreamed of.
Sometimes the journey is only the beginning . . .

Michael Archer made a promise he intends to keep. Though he was unable to save Ben Carstairs, Michael is determined to carry out Ben’s dying wish: to be reconciled with his father. What he doesn’t know is that Sam Carstairs—one of the most ruthless businessmen on the frontier—has no use for his own son, much less a man of God seeking reconciliation.

Soon after arriving in the booming town of Riverbend, Michael meets the stunning Rachel Stone while waiting for Sam to return from a business trip. Beautiful yet guarded, Rachel is running from a past as dark as Michael’s, and the last thing she expects—or thinks she deserves—is a chance at love. Yet there’s a spark between them neither can deny.

When word reaches town that Sam has been kidnapped on the stage coach home, Michael joins the search posse. But the trail ahead is more dangerous than any had imagined, and making it back alive will require Michael to face his past and overcome his deepest fear.

I know I'm going to love this book. Please give us the first page.

April 10, 1878

The crowd was small for a hanging. Quieter than usual, as if they all knew justice would not be served today.

Michael Archer found it hard to look at the young man before him. Ben Carstairs, only twenty-two, stood like a boy grown too tall, too soon. Each strand of his sandy hair grew as if it had a mind of its own. Handcuffs encircled his fine-boned wrists in loops of heavy iron. His lips quivered. Fear raged in his brown eyes.

“You believe I didn’t do it, don’t you?”

Michael’s throat tightened. He nodded. Many hours with the boy had convinced him of the young man’s innocence.

Ben gulped air and sighed. His shoulders sagged. He lifted his cuffed hands and opened a palm. “Give this to my father when you see him. It was my ma’s, and I wanted something of hers when he threw me out. Tell him I’m sorry.”

It was the silver Celtic cross Ben had worn on a leather thong around his neck. Only slight traces of the delicate engravings remained. Michael rubbed the cross as he had seen Ben do hundreds of times and closed his fist over Ben’s treasured token.

Michael slipped into his shirt pocket, buttoned the flap, and patted the cross with his hand. “I will.”

Sheriff Gideon Parsons spoke from behind Ben. “It’s time, son.”

Ben swallowed, then straightened. “Thank you, Michael.”

What a wonderful first sentence, and then the scene that follows is excellent. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Whether a stay at home; or working mom, an airplane-hopping executive, an empty-nester caring for multiple generations or a single juggling high demands of career and personal life, today's fast-paced modern world leaves women gasping for balance. We as modern Christian women want to look to the Bible for guidance on how to manage our lives -- but because the world of women looks so different today than it did when the Bible was written, it is hard to find chapter and verse that seems to apply to our situation today.

Thankfully, God has given us exactly that timeless, unchanging guidance for how to find peace, clarity, and God's best for our lives once we know where to look! The Life Ready Woman: Thriving in a Do-It-All World, reveals a profound biblical roadmap for how each of us can find the abundant life we are longing for, rather than the stressful, torn, how-do-I-balance-it-all life we often feel like we are trying to keep up with today. Actually being a LifeReady Woman means that you are clear about your life, bold in your faith, and able to find God’s best for you, and the end result will be that you not only survive but thrive in our do-it-all world.

God has given every wonderfully unique woman different skills and abilities, different desires, and different temperaments -- and every woman around the planet and through the ages is certainly living in different circumstances. But no matter what a woman’s life looks like, the Bible says that God has an individual mission and plan that He’s carefully designed for each of us. And He wants us to find it. Starting January 2011, The Life Ready Woman and the Life Ready Woman Video Series will help every wonderfully unique woman to thrive as she identifies and courageously pursues God's unique design and callings for her. LifeReady Woman puts you on a roadmap to make decisions that will lead to relief, delight, and fulfillment instead of regret.

About Shaunti Feldhahn:

Shaunti Feldhahn is a former Wall Street analyst, best-selling author of the book For Women Only, national speaker, and regular commentator in the media. She has been featured on The Today Show, PBS, TNT and Fox News- to name a few. You can learn more about her many activities by visiting her website Shaunti.com or get some great mom advice from her at MomLifeToday.com. She and her husband live with their two young children in Atlanta, Georgia, and enjoy every minute of living at warp speed.

About MomLife Today:

At MomLife Today you will enjoy community with real moms experiencing every age and every stage of MomLife—right alongside you.

Moms need friends we can walk through life with, but more importantly we need friends who will encourage us and equip us in our role as moms in an honest and transparent way … and that’s just what you’ll find by becoming part of our MomLife Today community! We believe that every MOMent counts!

We admit it, being a mom 24/7 is not easy. Rather than lament the role of motherhood, however, we choose to embrace that role and learn from each other how to make it through each day with the right attitude. Come share the joys, sorrows, insanity, and special moments of motherhood with us as we live it and candidly write about it…we’ll have lots of fun along the way! Join us, and do tell… What’s happening in your MomLife Today? http://www.momlifetoday.com/

In celebration of Shaunti Feldhahn’s Life Ready Woman, MomLife Today is giving away 2 Weekend To Remember Gift Packs and much more!

Not only, is MomLife Today helping promote Life Ready Woman, but they are thrilled to announce that Shaunti will be joining MomLife Today as a regular contributor!!!

Weekend To Remember Get-Aways offer marriage-changing principles that you can take home and apply to your daily lives to strengthen your marriage. Whether you are newly engaged or have been married for 50 years, you will find value in the tools provided at the getaway.

Don’t miss this opportunity to receive a conference registration for you and your spouse … and more! MomLife Today will be randomly selecting NINE lucky recipients to receive one of these great gifts:

Blog Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

I love youth. I believe they are the front line warriors and as an adult it is my responsibility and privilege to encourage and equip them.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Okay, I’m a natural blond so this is like asking which is my favorite flake in a box of Corn Flakes. I’ll share one of my precious blond moments with you though. A few years ago we built a log home in the winter with the goal of getting the walls up and the roof on so we’d have a warm, dry place to hunker down until spring. (Have you ever tried roofing in 65 below temperatures? One word. Don’t.) We didn’t have electricity or running water, but we did have a wood stove. One day I burned myself on a pan and lamented to myself that if we had electricity, I’d have a refrigerator and would have ice to put on my burn. Several hours later during the two hours of daylight, I gazed out the window at the beauty of winter. Then it hit me. All morning I’d been in pain from the burn and outside my door were tons of ice and snow. What can I say?

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

As a child I loved to read and write. In the late 80’s I took a creative writing course at the university and my professor asked when I planned to write for a living, but at that time I only wrote in prayer journals and never thought of sharing my written words with others.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

Oh, that’s a good question. I enjoy a vast range of books in both YA and adult including historical, whimsical, fantasy, mystery. There are so many wonderful authors. I get on kicks and read a bunch of murder mysteries, then switch to something else. And I love Christmas stories so each year I try to have enough of them to keep me entertained for two or three months. My fiction to-be-read shelf currently has books by Kingsbury, Dekker, Bell, Copeland, Snelling, Dooley, Myers, Berry, Eldredge, Collins, Lawton and Williamson, Stokes and Woodhouse.

I see my name on your list. I hope you like my book or books when you get to them. Let me know. I've had other readers compare my writing to Lauraine Snelling's and Tracie Peterson's. What other books have you written?

I’m working on a few stories, including a picture book.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

Oops. When they handed that out I thought they said vanity and turned it down. Okay, seriously, I keep my spices in alphabetical order. How can the world get out of control when Adobo and Thyme are where they’re supposed to be?

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of, besides family?

I think this is the most difficult question you’ve asked, Lena. Time is so fleeting and in my mind, so are accomplishments. Each time I’m urged by my Creator to do something that positively impacts others, I rejoice. But then the next opportunity comes along and shadows the last. I guess being an encourager is the accomplishment I’m most proud of, because it feels so good to lift others up. To buy a Starbucks for a drunk outside the store who looks like he’s been hit by a train, and tell him that God loves him. To stop and hand out popsicles to the road crew on a hot day. Buying a homeless person a meal, writing a note of encouragement to a single mom, anonymously paying for a family’s dinner at the restaurant.

You are my kind of person. I love reaching out to people, too. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A lion. No, a tiger. No, a bear. No, maybe Hugo, my dog because he knows how to love unconditionally, recognizes that every day is a new day, and there’s always reason to be joyful. And he gets taken care of pretty well too.

What is your favorite food?

Hmmm, I love Thai, Mexican, Italian. I’m addicted to Honeycrisp apples. They are the bomb. And salsa is a staple. And a medium rare filet mignon with blue cheese….oh shoot, hang on a sec while I wipe the drool off my keyboard.

James and I are excited because we recently found a new little Mexican restaurant where the food is delicious, plentiful, and affordable. We'll be going back soon. Is it hard to break into the YA market?

I think it’s challenging to break into any market. It’s the same rules, write something compelling, write it the best you can, listen to your critique partners, (if you don’t have any, better get you some,) have it edited professionally.

What advice would you give to an author wanting to do that?

Write what you are passionate about. Do you want to tell a good story? Do you want to write something that will change lives or hearts? Do you want to encourage? Do you want to inform? Whatever your reason for writing is, know it, because without passion, you’ll dry up like a spitball in the desert.

What would you like to tell us about the featured book?

Secrets Under the Midnight Sun is a coming of age story, set in Alaska in 1967. Freddie, a quirky twelve-year-old girl, longs for her father’s love and turns to God to fill the voids in her life.

The story deals with abuse and is aimed at YA/MG. Several counselors told me that there were books for adults looking for healing, but not much for kids going through the experience and this book reaches that audience. Interestingly enough, I find I’m not the only adult who reads YA, as a number of people that have contacted me about the impact of this story are adults.

Sounds like a powerful book. Please share the first page with us.

HOMECOMING

I’d anticipated this day for the last four of my twelve years. I bounced out of bed and floated down the hall to take a shower. I poked myself to see if I’d pop. Nope.

Back in my room I hung my robe in the closet then picked up the framed family photograph from the dresser. It had been taken eight years ago—in 1959—the summer we arrived in Alaska. David stood at attention in his Boy Scout uniform. The twins and Momma could be sisters. Shoulder length walnut hair framed their satin faces. In high heels they all towered inches taller than Daddy. I could easily have been an orphan that got in some nice family’s picture by mistake. My strawberry blond waves were going in every direction and my shirt half tucked into shorts that didn’t hide my skinned knees. I wore flip flops on my feet and clutched Chico, my Chihuahua, in my arms. Daddy’s face looking at me from the picture made me queasy. I set the photograph down and caught my reflection in the mirror over the dresser. I pulled my shirt sleeve down to cover the bruise on my arm. Everything will be okay now. David’s coming home.

I grabbed my baseball cap and pulled it down on my head as I rushed down the hall to the dining room.

And I loved having you here.Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

I'm thrilled to welcome my friend Janice back to this blog. So, Janice, how did you come up with the idea for this story?

I’ve been intrigued by the Camelot legend since my freshman year in college, when I played the role of a lady-in-waiting in the stage play. I attended college in East Tennessee, so I jumped at the chance to write a story set in the Knoxville area, just an hour and a half from my college. This story, like so many of my other comedies, is built around the premise that one person (in this case, a city planner) can make a huge difference in the lives of others. Of course, I had to add several comedic elements! A Janice Hanna (Thompson) story just wouldn’t be the same without ‘em!

That is so true. If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Ooo! What a party that would be! I’d start by inviting Lisa Wingate and Sandie Bricker. Can you even imagine how much fun those ladies would be? I have so much in common with both of them. I’d also love to invite a few more light-hearted authors, so I’d include Robin Jones Gunn, Megan DiMaria, Trish Perry and Kristin Billerbeck. We’d probably stay up all night laughing, but I’m sure it would be quite a party!

I know that group would be a blast. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

I’m going to be attending a retreat with several historical authors soon! (And I’m looking forward to seeing you there, Lena, so your name will be the first on my list!) I’d invite: Lena Nelson Dooley, Tracie Peterson, Kathleen Y’Barbo, Martha Rogers, Nancy Jo Jenkins and Cathy Hake.

I know the six of us would have a good time. And I can hardly wait to see you next week. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?

My biggest problem, of late, is that readers tend to compare one book against another. My “Weddings by Bella” books were a hoot, so readers now expect all of my stories to be just as humorous. I’ll probably write funny stories forever, but occasionally like to throw in serious issues, as well. I do hope that readers will see me (and my stories) as unique.

Oh, they are totally unique. That's what I love about them. Tell us about the featured book.

Love Finds You in Camelot, Tennessee (Synopsis): Steve Garrison is the newly elected mayor of the tiny town of Camelot, Tennessee. When his childhood friend Amy Hart comes up with a plan to revive the town’s economy, he jumps onboard. The townspeople will perform the musical Camelot in the city’s park, drawing in nightly crowds. While excitement is high, talent is lacking. Amy casts several of the parts but is stumped when it comes to the role of King Arthur. In desperation, she turns to Steve. Will he pull the sword from the stone and save the day? Steve reluctantly agrees—on one condition. In exchange for his willingness to wear tights, Amy must play the role of Guinevere. And when a handsome newcomer cast as Lancelot takes an interest in Amy, the stage is set for a little tension—and perhaps love.

I can see it now! Please give us the first page of the book.

An early morning haze hung over the sleepy town of Camelot, Tennessee. Amy Hart squinted to get a better view of the road as she maneuvered her Jeep Liberty around a tricky bend. On a clear day, the journey into town would prove challenging. But on a morning like this—with the heavy sky pressing in around her—the curvy road seemed to slip away into a foggy mist. How many times had she imagined she could drive off into the dreamy haze and find herself in a world of knights and ladies, castles and kings?

Once she rounded the turn, Amy reached to flip on the radio then settled back against the seat as a familiar worship song came on. Perfect. Pretty soon the skies would clear and so would her mood. Just as soon as she arrived at work and shared her latest idea with Steve. Only then would the tightness in her chest dissipate. She lost herself in her thoughts as she pondered her best friend’s reaction to her latest plan. Likely he would think she’d lost her mind. Just like the last time. And the time before that. Oh well. She would prove him wrong. This time.

Amy made her way down Excalibur Drive and turned off onto Lancelot Lane, taking a shortcut to City Hall. Another turn to the right landed her on Camelot Court. She sighed as she caught a glimpse of the abandoned car lot to her right. As usual, nothing much stirred there. Or at the bank. Or at Gwen’s Grooming, Camelot’s only pet-friendly store. No, at this time of morning, not much fluttered but the birds. Well, the birds, and Lucy Cramden, who always walked her ferret, Fiona, at the crack of dawn. Strange sight, a ferret on a bright pink leash. Just part of the quirkiness that made Camelot...Camelot.

As Amy turned into the parking lot at City Hall, the sun peeked through the fog for one magical moment, taking her breath away. She took it as a sign. A confirmation, of sorts. Surely the Lord, Himself, had performed this wondrous act to boost her courage. She whispered up a prayer of thanksgiving and her spirits lifted immediately.

After pulling into her usual parking space, Amy turned off the car. Instead of heading for her office, she lingered in the car a few moments, watching the colors of the sky morph from dizzying gray to a pinkish blue. She used the extra time to get a handle on her thoughts. Last night’s town hall meeting had left her reeling, but this morning she’d awakened with the perfect plan, one she hoped others in town would go along with. In fact, it was such an amazingly simple idea she had to wonder why no one had thought of it before.

She glanced out over the bluff, the panoramic view mesmerizing her, as always. For as long as she could remember, Amy had always loved the dewy mornings in East Tennessee, and the changing of the seasons only made her love them more. Last fall when the leaves turned, the vibrant colors had proven spectacular. As a child, she’d believed her father’s tale that an artist’s paintbrush swept in across the bluff while she slept, leaving behind strokes of amber, hazy orange and brilliant gold. Of course, she’d believed all of her father’s tall tales as a kid, including the one about meeting King Arthur face-to-face and pulling Excalibur out of the rocky ledge near Bever Creek. But, who could blame her? Dad’s stories carried her away to a place deep in her imagination, and sometimes a girl just needed to travel.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Jamie Carie contacted me with the idea about taking this day to thank readers for supporting us and buying our books. I so gree with her. I want to add my thanks to each of you who support my blog and also those who buy my books. We love each one of you. You are the reason we write the books we do.

I’ve always loved history and would read pretty much anything from days gone by. I also love mysteries and grew up nearly memorizing Nancy Drew stories. Combining history and mystery seemed a natural step as I wrote my stories.

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?

Oh goodness. There are so many sweet and happy days. I dearly love my husband and am thankful the Lord blessed me with him. I believe it’s because of our union that all the other happy days came into existence.

How has being published changed your life?

Creating and writing novels has certainly filled any down time I used to have. I’m much more busy than I used to be. It’s also made me think about doing a better job of organizing my life, but organization has yet to take hold.

What are you reading right now?

I just received Raider’s Heart by Marcia Gruver. She has a very unique and enjoyable writer’s voice.

I love Marcia's books, too. What is your current work in progress?

My work in progress is currently titled Comes a Storm, about yet another tomboy heroine, but this one is out for revenge. I’ve written several stories about feminine heroines. I was ready to get back to a heroine who is a bit more rough and tumble.

What would be your dream vacation?

Oh, I love this question. My husband asked the very same thing. I would love to drive from northern New Mexico up through Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and over to Idaho, then on to the west coast and catch a cruise ship to Alaska and spend a few days there before heading home again. We hope to do this within the next two to three years.

Sounds like a lot of fun. How do you choose your settings for each book?

I love the states west of the Mississippi, preferably one with mountains. My next work in progress is set in Wyoming.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I used to paint with oils and acrylics, but that hobby fell by the wayside when I discovered my true love of creating stories. I guess now my only other real hobby is just spending time outdoors, though every once in a while I also enjoy looking through antique shops. My mind goes wild when I pick up certain items and wonder who used to use them and what their life might have been like.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Description is what I wrestle with the most. I know it’s necessary to entrench a reader into my setting and help them see what I’m picturing, but I like writing action and description slows me down. I usually have to go back and put it in as I’m editing.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

This is not an easy road you’ve chosen. It takes a lot of hard work, determination, and patience. But don’t give up. Keep working at improving. Get involved with a critique group and attend conferences when you can. When the time is right, meaning in God’s time not yours, you’ll be blessed with a contract.

Tell us about the featured book.

Bobbie McIntyre is chasing her dream of owning a ranch. Jace Kincaid is trying to fulfill his father’s dream of running a large and successful ranch. As the two deal with hardships, rustlers, and distrust, they see their dreams disintegrate.

Sounds interesting. Please give us the first page of the book.

Colorado Territory 1872

I’ll be dead in a minute. Maybe less.

Bobbie McIntyre spurred her horse. “Faster, Mack. Hurry.” She peeked over her shoulder, saw the man’s gun poised at her back. Her heart thudded harder than the beat of Mack’s hooves.

“Go, Mack!” The wind swallowed her plea.

The bandit was gaining ground fast. She leaned lower over the saddle. The cold mountain air blurred her vision and whistled past her ears. Mack’s chest heaved and sweat streamed down his neck. He stumbled, then righted again.

She veered left toward the boulders, pulled her pistol from her holster, then turned in the saddle and aimed.

Something slammed into her back. Her gun blasted before it slipped from her grasp. She hit the ground, knocking the breath from her. A heavy weight pressed her down, then rolled off her. She lay dazed.

What happened?

The click of a gun hammer set fire to panic. She scooped up a fistful of soil and stones, pushed to her knees…and stared into the steel barrel of a pistol. The dirt in her hand trickled through her fingers to the ground.

She peered around for her own gun and faced another barrel. Two men. At least that answered her question of what threw her from the saddle. The second man must’ve been hiding behind the boulder she’d planned to use for protection. She stilled while her mind scrambled for a way out of her mess.

The tall, scruffy man grinned. “Well, looky here, Jace. We chased a man and caught us a gal.”

Wow! I can hardly wait to read it. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Thank you so much, for the fun interview, Janelle.Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Sarah (OH) is the winner of Blood Covenant by Lisa Harris.Little Lady (MI) is the winner of Lady in the Mist by Laurie Alice Eakes.CherieJ (FL) is the winner of Raider's Heart by Marcia Gruver.Jan Cline (WA) is the winner of The Voyage of Promise by Kay Marshall Strom.Lana Packer (AZ) is the winner of City of Tranquil Light by Bo Caldwell.

A good way to thank the author for the book is to write reviews and post them on Amazon and other online sites.

Congratulations, everyone. Send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email. You have 6 weeks to claim your book.
If you didn't win and you plan to order the book, please use the link provided on the individual interview. By using that link when you order, you will help support this blog

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Welcome back, Denise. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

I feel totally blessed to be writing for a living. My goal when I started writing was to complete one novel. I had no idea what God had in store! His dreams are truly bigger than mine. On the horizon . . . I have the Big Sky Series coming up—three cowboy stories set in the fictional town of Moose Creek, Montana. The first, A Cowboy’s Touch, will release April 2. I’m also working on a novella collection called Smitten with 3 close friends: Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, and Diann Hunt. Smitten will release Dec., 2011. Beyond that, only God knows!

I'd love to feature the Montana books on my blog. Tell us a little about your family.

I’m happily married to a business owner and have 3 boys ages 12, 15, and 18. My evenings are filled with practices, games, and ESPN. I’m also suffering from testosterone poisoning.

We only had daughters. My husband was drowning in estrogen. Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?

Oh boy, has it ever! I long for the day when I could just pick up any old novel and be lost for hours! Writing has made me so picky. I can only turn off the internal editor if the writing is very well done, and my patience with shoddy storytelling is short. I finish fewer than half the books I start, but when I find one that holds my attention, I am one happy camper.

What are you working on right now?

Currently I’m working on my Smitten novella and writing the synopsis for my 3rd Big Sky story.

What outside interests do you have?

Let’s see, I love to travel with my family. We’ve covered most of the United States over the past several years, including Alaska. I also love to play drums and eat chocolate, preferable dark (the antioxidants, you know). And it probably goes without saying that I love to curl up with a great novel.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

You can see how my love of travel might tie into my writing. :-) Basically I try to set stories where I think my readers might like to visit (and where I might like to spend the next 9 months!) After all, reading a book is like taking a little vacation.

If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?

I’m sure this isn’t original, but who’d pass up the chance to spend an evening with Jesus? I don’t think you could come away from that unchanged.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?

When I wrote my first novel, I thought writing ability was something you either had or didn’t have. While that’s true to a small degree, writing is also a craft and, like any craft, improves with study and practice. That was wonderful news to me!

What new lesson is the Lord teaching you right now?

Lately I’ve been struggling with chronic fatigue so He’s mainly been teaching me to take care of my health (we only get one body) and let the unimportant stuff go. Eat right, get enough sleep, all that. And you know what? The roof isn’t going to cave in if the house doesn’t get vacuumed this week or if the whites don’t get washed today.

What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?

1. Study the craft.
2. Practice the craft.
3. Don’t give up.

Tell us about the featured book.

Surrender Bay is the first book of my Nantucket Series. After the 4-book series was complete, my publisher (Thomas Nelson) decided to give the series a fresh new look. I also added an overt faith thread. So while Surrender Bay is actually a RE-release, there is new content in the story.

And I can hardly wait to read it. I read and loved the original. Please give us the first page of the book.

“You can just drop me off, you know. I’m not a baby.” Eleven-year-old Caden flipped her mom a look, then stared out the passenger window.

“I like watching you.” Sam pulled the Ciera into the parking lot of the Boston Academy of Gymnastics and was about to expound on the thought, but Caden interrupted.

“The other moms don’t stay.”

It wasn’t true, but Sam had a feeling this objection had less to do with Caden’s assertion of independence and more to do with her.

“Did Bridget tell everyone about me?” Sam asked.

Caden crossed her arms, her warm-up suit rustling.

“If I didn’t clean the gym, we wouldn’t be able to afford lessons, Caden.”

Though her daughter frowned, her jaw and shoulders rigid, Sam knew the stubborn front concealed a wounded little girl. Knew it because Caden was so much like her.

“They all know now. Bridget has such a big mouth. She thinks she’s so hot just because her mom owns the gym.”

Sam turned off the ignition and withdrew the keys, then glanced at Caden, who made no move to leave. The clock on the dashboard read 7:02. “Honey, let’s finish this later. You’re late for class.”

“So you’re staying?”

Sam’s parental pride shrank two more sizes. “By the time I got home, I’d just have to turn around and come back. I promise to sit in the back and keep my hood up to conceal my identity.” Sam regretted the sarcasm instantly.

Caden discharged her seat belt, and it sprang upward, clanging against the doorframe. “Whatever,” she said, then exited the car, not quite slamming the door.

Thank you, Denise, for the fun time today.Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

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Wednesday, February 09, 2011

Welcome, Davd. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Within the story, several characters emerge – some which we could classify as on the side of the light, and several definitely on the side of darkness. I have always classified myself as someone who has taken risks and put oneself on the edge a few too many times (in my younger days – I’ll put that down to youthfulness – now being married and having children, I think I have calmed down considerably) – so I can identify with several of the characters (on the side of the light) who push things to the limit within the book– but definitely not the more sinister characters.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I don’t know if quirky is the right word to use for this story, but I recall working in Botswana with a friend of mine who dragged me out to explore one of the salt pans with him. Unbeknown to me, this is one of the most dangerous places to get lost in Botswana, and in those days, there was no GPS or anything like that – all we had was his little watch compass, a tourist guide book with vague descriptions on how to navigate through the pan, no spare water or fuel (to those of you who know Botswana , it was the Makgadikadi Pan.) Anyway, we amazingly managed to find our way to the central point of the Pan called Kubu Island which is this enormous granite outcrop with several gigantic Baobab trees – so after climbing those (not recommended) and finding out the hard way that the salt pan is not as it seems – (the mud flying off the tires as we attempted not to sink the vehicle was scary enough), God smiled on us and we somehow headed north… and I reiterate… north, as we found the sun at one stage definitely on the wrong side of the vehicle. We eventually came out of the bush just before the sun set and managed to drag a petrol attendant out of a bar to fill up the truck. If any of you ever consider going there – extra water, fuel and a decent GPS system is a must – and don’t drive too far off the roads – you may start sinking.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

The first company I ever worked for (an auditing company actually) – one of the members of staff started a weekly magazine which I started contributing to for fun. The editor of this mentioned once or twice that I should write a book – so this stuck with me. Several years later I found myself in a position where I had the stories accumulating in my head, so I started writing for fun, and it took off from there.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I grew up reading fiction from authors like Frank Peretti in my teens – books like This Present Darkness, and The Oath, which I must say is the only book I have ever bought twice ( a friend of mine borrowed it and somehow it got lost – hence the double purchase.) Of late, I have found authors like Steven Lawhead – he has recently done a trilogy on Robin Hood which I really enjoyed. I must say, I have tried a few other books from the secular section and found myself burning at least three of the books I purchased – so I’m sticking these days to the Christian Fiction side of the internet when it comes to fiction.

On the non fiction side – more on the bible study and books which give the reader some sort of spiritual direction – I have really enjoyed Beth Moore – now I know you are going to say that she mainly writes for women – and I would agree that some of her books are – but a lot of her Bible studies especially the one on Isaiah I believe is for both men and women and she has a great way of helping you see the steps you need to take to walk closer to Jesus.

That is so true. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

Funny enough – running is one of them. I’ve run the comrades marathon once – this is a fifty four mile run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban in South Africa with a cut off of eleven hours. My time wasn’t great but this type of race one tries to finish, never mind the timing – except the cut off time that is. And no I didn’t get into one of the ambulances along the way – I did look for them but couldn’t find any – so I had to keep running – getting in with ten minutes to spare.

Secondly – now being married and having two little girls, I’ve found that I would rather spend my time at home with them, rather than over committing myself to other things. So cutting back on other commitments has helped.

And thirdly - Tennis - this is my other sanity break.

In the far distant past, I played tennis, but not well. How do you choose your characters’ names?

The names of my characters I use usually have some sort of emotional pull on me. If I don’t form some sort of tie or connection with a name then I find it quite hard to get motivated to write about the individual character. In this book, each character had a piece of a friends name - not the full names – just a piece – so it ended up as a reminder of my friends all over the world and stirred me with my writing.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Probably getting published. If you were to ask me, who I am the most proud of – that would have to be my wife and all her hard work she puts into raising our two little ones – very active ones I must add.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

It would have to be a wolf. Reason being is their persistence in hunting and chasing their prey. I find with myself, I am usually a fairly persistent person, who … how should we say… doesn’t go away if something needs to be done, or someone has to do it for you … i.e. chasing passports… things like that.

Secondly – one usually associates a wolf with a full moon – and I love full moons – and no I don’t howl at it, but it’s just great when the earth is flooded with a white light at night.

What is your favorite food?

Caramel squares (short cake covered in caramel) – my wife makes them – I can eat them all day.

They sound yummy. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I think trying to find a comfortable place to write was a fairly big challenge. I find myself sitting all day and this does absolutely nothing to motivate me to continue writing at a desk when the evening comes.

I just wanted to end up in bed – so I now prop myself up with a pillow and place the laptop on my wife’s wooden tray from the kitchen. Works wonderfully and the fan on the laptop doesn’t end up trying to suck air through the blanket.

Tell us about the featured book.

Tribe of Shadows – The Hunted unveils the plight of Ross and William Hunt, two brothers whose destiny and that of an entire community, lies in their ability to outsmart … The priest of the dead. He is a man who is both a national and a spiritual leader of a nation deep rooted in ancestral worship. With entire communities slaughtered, and a nation in chaos… the arrival of the land’s most feared leader at Ross and Angie’s photographic camp sends all but a few into hiding to escape with their lives and whatever they can carry. Having been protected for the last two years by the General himself, due to one act of kindness, Ross can only remain calm, as his life is turned upside down with this unexpected arrival and the preparation of a national ceremony looming. Things change though, with the unveiling of a secret, and a desperate attempt to get the evidence to his brother, William Hunt, a renowned journalist based in London. Torn between love, passion and fear, as friends and family members are hunted across two continents, with mercenaries stopping at nothing short of genocide to protect their interest, and the knowledge of their atrocities, the ultimate question both brothers must face is… what do they believe and will it withstand the onslaught they will face? Tribe of Shadows delves deeply into the darkness of the lost soul, and the compassion and patience needed to draw it out of the shadows.

Please give us the first page of the book.

London – Wednesday the 7th of October

Delusional. That was the only word that came to my mind as I looked at the woman sitting across from me on the subway. I had spent the last three–quarters of an hour fighting my way through a sea of people and had finally managed to secure a seat, when I saw her. At first glance I noticed her white leather boots and red jacket.

Her mane of brown hair was definitely eye catching, but I froze as she turned around and smiled at me. Those dark green eyes caught me in an instant, and I knew we had met before.

She continued to smile at me and mouthed the words, “Next train stop.” I shook my head and looked away. Don’t be a fool! I told myself. No one in this city would knowingly acknowledge a complete stranger. But she had. In a city where you may, day in and day out, sit next to someone and never know their name, this woman had ventured beyond the boundaries of common courtesy to engage my attention. I moved my head quickly as if to look to the end of the carriage, letting my head continue to move but allowing my eyes to linger upon her. She had not moved and sat there watching me with a knowing smile on her face.

I am quite excited that the book is available both in paperback and ebook or kindle downloads on Amazon and several other web sites.

Thank you for this chance to share a bit about myself and this exciting project.

My pleasure, David.Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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